Angel Di Maria has voiced his support for both coach Lionel Scaloni and Lionel Messi to remain with Argentina following the nation's impressive campaign at the 2026 World Cup. Speaking after Rosario Central's Clausura opener, the former winger reflected on the tournament's defining moments and expressed his hopes for the squad's immediate future.
Peak Moment Against England
For Di Maria, the pinnacle of Argentina's World Cup journey came during the semi-final triumph over England. The 2-1 victory represented far more than a single match result—it symbolized the collective resilience and character of Scaloni's squad. "The win over England was a great joy for all of Argentina," Di Maria told Argentine media. "For me the World Cup ended here, for they gave the country an indescribable joy."
Despite the eventual defeat in the final, Di Maria emphasized the magnitude of what the team had accomplished. He highlighted how Argentina's players demonstrated remarkable mental strength throughout the tournament, discovering reserves of determination when circumstances demanded it. The veteran attacker acknowledged that fortune did not always favor Scaloni's side, yet stressed that the squad had elevated the national team's standing regardless of the ultimate outcome.
Backing Messi's Continued Role
On the question of Messi's future involvement, Di Maria expressed unwavering confidence in the 39-year-old's ongoing contribution. "I think he has many years of playing and success ahead of him," Di Maria stated. "At his age he has proven he is still one of the best players in history, with no limits to his abilities." This assessment reflects Messi's continued relevance at the highest level, even as he enters the latter stages of his career.
Di Maria was equally emphatic about Scaloni's importance to the project. The coach, he argued, oversees a promising generation of young players hungry for future glory. While acknowledging that Scaloni must make his own decision regarding his tenure, Di Maria made his preference clear: "I hope he stays for everyone's benefit."
The Argentine federation now faces critical decisions about continuity and direction as it prepares for the 2026 qualifying cycle and beyond. Di Maria's public backing of both Scaloni and Messi signals the broader sentiment within the squad about preserving the winning culture that has defined Argentina's recent success in international football.
